Quantitative Methods
Head of Department Mr M H Nicholson
Exam board MEI
Qualification name Quantitative Methods (Introduction To Quantitative Methods)
Qualification codes GCE AS: H133 (Level 3 Certificate H863) NB: This course is not available at GCE A2 and is studied in the Lower Sixth
What you will study
Unit 1 (IQM/G244): Introduction to Quantitative Methods
This unit covers the use of ICT, modelling, basic statistics, finance, working with exponentials, working with graphs and gradients and risk.
Unit 2 (S1/G245): Statistics 1
In this applied unit we look at the representation of data, probability, discrete random variables and bivariate data.
Unit 3 (D1/G246): Decision Mathematics 1
In this unit we look at algorithms, graphs, networks, critical path analysis, linear programming and simulation.
How you will be assessed
All Units: 1 h 30 min written paper
In addition, the IQM unit has a coursework element which counts for 20% of that unit. This involves students solving a statistical problem with the assistance of a spreadsheet.
Why choose this subject?
This is an AS course only and would ideally be a fourth choice subject which is completed at the end of the Lower Sixth.
It is designed for post-16 students who do not wish to or do not have the ability to take Mathematics at A Level but do use Mathematics in other subjects such as Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, IT or Psychology.
The course has two practical choices depending on progress. Studying the Introduction to Quantitative Methods (IQM) unit can, by itself, lead to a Level 3 Certificate if a student is not successful with the full AS course. Added to the IQM unit are Decision 1 and Statistics 1 which are identical to their equivalent units in the MEI GCE course. These 3 units combine to obtain an AS in Quantitative Methods.
Course requirements
A grade C or better in GCSE or iGCSE Mathematics is the minimum standard required to begin a course in Level 3 or AS Quantitative Methods.
Related subjects at Sixth Form
Engaging and inspiring, Quantitative Methods supports post-16 learners with their mathematical needs in other subjects and as a result can easily fit in with a wide variety of subject combinations.
Where could this lead?
The specification does not contain any calculus and is not adequate, on its own, to support the mathematical needs of students going on to study Mathematics, Engineering or the physical sciences. The specification does, however, give students the mathematical skills to tackle problems in a variety of different real and realistic contexts. Students are taught to use a modelling cycle, a statistical problem-solving cycle and a financial problem-solving cycle. The use of technology – in particular spreadsheets – is an integral part of the course. These skills can then be taken forward into students’ longer term needs in tertiary education and in employment.
Further important information
Practice away from the classroom is crucial to gain a high level of success and to help towards this aim the department provides mathematics tutorials every weekday (except Wednesdays) from 4pm-5pm.
